What is the big takeaway when it comes to online reputation management?

What it all comes down to is that you can’t control what other people say about your business but you can control the context in which your business is discussed. Online reputation management is about making sure that the conversation about your business is always positive and if on the off chance there is a negative review or comment that it’s addressed and the issue is fixed as soon as possible.

Online reputation management is a complex process when done correctly. There are numerous tools, services and systems that can influence the conversation about your business online. Some small business owners may have the tendency to think at this point, no one knows I’m here so why should I be concerned with ORM? But that’s when you can use this process to let people know that you are here. Make sure your business is listed in all the relevant review sites like Yelp and CitySearch and then get your customers to post reviews. Very few people will write a review without being asked so don’t be shy. When you control the conversation, the positive information that gets out there about your business will not only make people feel comfortable about visiting your website and buying your products or services, but the search engines will love you too. It is well worth your time to get set up properly and build an online reputation that makes you proud and grows your business.